"I think people say that, but with me and Sam, we are quite a genuine relationship. People see that and that's why people related to us quite well. So [the show] wouldn't ever get in my way," he told Bang Showbiz.

"But it's nice to have a bit of personal time [away from the cameras]."

Joey and Sam - who was recently diagnosed with Crohn's disease - endured a very public break-up during their time on the show and a number of their co-stars' relationships have since been rocked by cheating rumours.

But the reality TV hunk - who stars in Educating Joey Essex - isn't convinced that all TOWIE relationships are cursed.

"I'm not in it anymore and since I've been away from TOWIE I haven't had a relationship, so I really can't say why so many people cheat. It is what it is. You go on the show, if you're with someone you're gonna have to do scenes and if things happen, it just happens."